Cheshire shops workers inspired to back cancer charity

A LITTLE girl’s battle against leukaemia has inspired store staff in their fundraising campaign.

The team at M&S Cheshire Oaks have chosen Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research as their 2014 charity of the year.

The store, which opened in 2012, will be hosting an ongoing fundraising campaign, with a range of activities and events from sponsored walks and runs, to bag packs, cake bakes and raffles.

Funds raised will be donated to research projects based in the North West.

Justine Brook, M&S Cheshire Oaks store manager, said: “Each year we commit to working with a local cause for the good of the immediate community. All our staff were really keen to choose a local charity that meant something to both employees and people in the area.

“This charity is very close to the team here at Cheshire Oaks as a member of staff’s god-daughter fought a courageous battle with childhood leukaemia but sadly, passed away at just five years old.

“We look forward to working with Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research for many months to come and hope that our customers will help get behind our efforts.”

Catriona Tait, Leukaemia and Lymphoma Research North West, said: “It’s wonderful news that we have been chosen as the store’s charity and would like to say a big thank you to the team for putting us forward and to all the store colleagues for their upcoming support.”

M&S works closely with local communities as part of its ‘Plan A’ commitments, the company’s pledge to become the world’s most sustainable major retailer.

Each year, M&S stores around the country select one charity to support for the full year, hosting fundraising events with customers and staff.